Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held high-level bilateral discussions at the White House on Thursday, focusing on enhancing strategic cooperation between the two nations. Their meeting came amid Trump’s sharp remarks on India’s trade policies and his push for reciprocal tariffs on countries imposing duties on US goods.
Despite trade tensions, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties, with Modi emphasizing plans to double Indo-US trade by 2030. Following their discussions, the Indian Prime Minister called the meeting “excellent,” highlighting its significance in strengthening relations.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
Tahawwur Rana’s Extradition Approved
President Trump confirmed that his administration has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key conspirator in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, to India. Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin, has been held in a Los Angeles detention center due to his close links with David Coleman Headley, one of the masterminds behind the attacks. Trump described Rana as a “very dangerous” individual and stressed the importance of delivering justice.
Enhanced Defence Collaboration
India and the US are set to expand their defence partnership, with Trump announcing plans to provide India with advanced military equipment, including F-35 stealth fighter jets. The deal, worth billions of dollars, reflects growing defence cooperation between the two nations. Both leaders also discussed strengthening collaborations in critical technology, intelligence sharing, and regional security.
Major Energy Trade Agreement
Modi and Trump finalized an agreement to make the US a top oil and gas supplier to India, reducing New Delhi’s reliance on other energy sources. Trump noted that India’s high tariffs on American goods, which sometimes exceed 70%, have been a long-standing trade issue. However, Modi assured reductions in certain tariffs, paving the way for increased US exports to India.
During a joint press conference, Trump acknowledged Modi’s willingness to address trade imbalances, stating, “Prime Minister Modi, in good faith, has committed to easing tariffs, and we look forward to a more balanced trade partnership.”
Joint Commitment to Combat Terrorism
Both leaders underscored their shared commitment to eradicating terrorism. Modi expressed gratitude to Trump for approving Rana’s extradition and emphasized India’s strong stance against cross-border terrorism.
“India and the US stand united in the fight against terrorism,” Modi stated. “We will take decisive action to eliminate threats, and I deeply appreciate President Trump’s commitment to ensuring justice for the 2008 Mumbai attacks.”
Tariff Negotiations and Trade Policy
Trade remained a central topic, with Trump reiterating concerns over India’s high tariffs on American goods. “India has been one of the toughest tariff nations in the world, making it difficult for US businesses to compete,” he said.
Trump also outlined his administration’s new approach, saying, “We will match whatever tariffs other nations impose on us. If they charge us, we charge them.”
Strengthening Future Ties
Despite differences over trade, the Modi-Trump meeting reinforced the strategic importance of Indo-US relations. With agreements on defence, energy, and counterterrorism, both nations are poised to deepen their partnership in the years ahead.
